Tissue slitting methods and systems

ABSTRACT

Methods and systems for separating an object, such as a lead, from formed tissue are provided. Specifically, a tissue slitting device is configured to engage patient formed tissue at a slitting engagement point. While the object is subjected to a first traction force, the tissue slitting device is caused to move further into the engaged tissue and slit the tissue past the point of engagement. The slitting device causes the tissue to separate along an axial direction of the length of the formed tissue and releases at least some of the force containing the object. The methods and systems are well suited for use in cardiac pacing or defibrillator lead explant procedures.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application claims the benefit of and priority, under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e), to U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/701,521, filed Sep. 14, 2012, entitled “TISSUE SEPARATING METHODS AND SYSTEMS,” which is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for all that it teaches and for all purposes.

This application is also related to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/828,231, filed on Mar. 14, 2013, entitled, “Tissue Slitting Methods and Systems”, issued as U.S. Pat. No. 9,949,753; Ser. No. 13/828,310, filed on Mar. 14, 2013, entitled, “Tissue Slitting Methods and Systems”, issued as U.S. Pat. No. 9,413,896; Ser. No. 13/828,441, filed on Mar. 14, 2013, entitled, “Tissue Slitting Methods and Systems”, issued as U.S. Pat. No. 9,763,692; Ser. No. 13/828,638, filed on Mar. 14, 2013, entitled, “Lead Removal Sleeve”; and Ser. No. 13/828,536, filed on Mar. 14, 2013, entitled, “Expandable Lead Jacket”, issued as U.S. Pat. No. 9,724,122. The entire disclosures of the applications listed above are hereby incorporated herein by reference, in their entirety, for all that they teach and for all purposes.

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

The present disclosure relates generally to devices, methods and systems for separating tissue in a patient, and more specifically, to techniques for separating tissue attached to leads in a patient.

BACKGROUND

Cardiac pacing systems typically include a pacemaker and one or more leads, which are placed inside the body of a patient. The pacemaker includes a power source and circuitry configured to send timed electrical pulses to the lead. The lead carries the electrical pulse to the heart to initiate a heartbeat, and transmits information about the heart's electrical activity to the pacemaker. The lead can include a fixation mechanism that holds the lead to the cardiac tissue. In some cases, a lead is inserted through a vein or artery (collectively vasculature) and guided to the heart where it is attached. In other instances, a lead is attached to the outside of the heart. During its time in the body, tissue can attach to the lead in the form of lesions, adhesions or scar tissue, or tissue can encase a lead. In addition, the lead and/or tissue can become attached to the vasculature wall. At times, leads may be removed from patients for numerous reasons, including but not limited to, infections, lead age, and lead malfunction. Accordingly, removal or extraction of the lead may present associated complications.

Current lead extraction techniques include mechanical traction, mechanical devices, and laser devices. Mechanical traction can be accomplished by inserting a locking stylet into the hollow portion of the lead and then pulling the lead to remove it. An example of such a lead locking device is described and illustrated in U.S. Pat. No. 6,167,315 to Coe et al., which is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for all that it teaches and for all purposes. In some cases, dilating telescopic sheaths may also be used to strip away the scar tissue adhering the lead to the body. Examples of a such devices and methods used to extract leads is described and illustrated in United States Patent Publication No. 2008/0154293 to Taylor, which is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for all that it teaches and for all purposes.

Dilation techniques typically involve pushing tissue away from the lead when the sheath is pushed longitudinally along the lead. However, this pushing technique may be difficult to implement, particularly when the lead has a tortuous path or curvature because the requisite longitudinal forces to extract the tissue from the lead in under these circumstances increase. The longitudinal forces also may require heavy counter forces on the lead, which may result in lead breakage.

Some mechanical sheaths have proposed trigger mechanisms for extending a blade from a sheath. At least some of these devices, however, involve complicated activation mechanisms and may not be well suited for negotiating the tortuous paths that exist in certain vascular or physiological environments.

Laser devices typically employ laser energy to cut the scar tissue away from the lead thus allowing for removal. Examples of such laser devices and systems are described and illustrated in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,383,199 and 5,824,026 and 5,916,210 and 6,228,076 and 6,290,668 all of which are hereby incorporated herein by reference in their entirety for all that they teach and for all purposes.

Further complicating lead removal is the fact that in some cases, the leads may be located in, and/or attached to, the body of a patient in a structurally-weak portion of the vasculature. For instance, typical leads in a human may pass through the innominate vein, past the superior vena cava (“SVC”), and into the right atrium of the heart. A majority of tissue growth can occur along the SVC and other locations along the innominate vein where the leads make contact with the vein walls. However, tissue growth can also occur at locations within a patient where the leads make contact with arterials or other areas of the vasculature. Certain veins and arteries, and certain areas of vein and arterial walls, can be thin which can make lead removal a complicated and delicate process.

SUMMARY

A traditional approach to removing tissue from implanted leads is based on the presumption that the tissue growths are adhered directly to the surfaces of the implanted leads. As such, methods and systems have been designed to dislocate the connection between the tissue attached to the implanted device and the body of a patient. Although some tissue may remain on the lead, current methods focus on removing most of the tissue surrounding a circumference of the lead. In other words, while tissue may remain attached around the lead, current systems essentially core around this tissue surrounding the circumference of a lead to free the lead along with a section of the cored tissue to create slack for removing the lead from a patient.

Surprisingly and unexpectedly, it has been discovered that tissue growth may not adhere directly to the implanted lead but actually form a substantially cylindrical “tube” around the implanted substantially cylindrical lead at a given contact area. Contrary to conventional wisdom, the tissue growth typically does not physically adhere to the lead. For example, this tissue growth, once formed completely around a lead, forms a tubular-shaped member that essentially holds the lead and resists lead removal. The tubular-shaped section of formed tissue around an implanted device may impart a combination of connection forces/modes that prevent the removal of the device from a patient. For example, the tubular-shaped section of formed tissue, or tissue growth, may constrict, capture, and/or surround implanted leads. In some cases, the tissue growth may constrict a lead, especially if a force is applied to one end of the lead during a removal operation. In other cases, the tissue growth may capture the lead and prevent removal, by, among other things, being attached to the patient and the lead simultaneously. Additionally or alternatively, the tissue growth, during attempted lead removal, may at least partially adhere to the lead in one or more sections while completely forming around the lead.

Based upon the surprising and unexpected discovery that tissue growth may not be directly adhered to the implanted lead, alternative devices and methods may be used to extract an object from such tissue. In other words, methods and devices are disclosed herein, that are capable of exploiting the growth nature of the tissue around a lead to efficiently extract the lead from tissue that acts to hold the lead with some type of force. The tissue growth may form around the lead such that the lead is contained from free movement within a patient. For instance, the tissue growth may impart a clamping, or constrictive, force around the circumference of the lead that can prevent movement of the lead within this constrictive tissue growth. Due to the taught and constrictive nature of the tissue around the lead, the lead may be able to be removed without mechanically removing or laser ablating the entire tissue region surrounding the lead in a 360 degree, or circumferential, fashion. Rather, initiating a cut and/or slit of the tissue along a longitudinal axis of the lead may allow a surgeon to easily separate the lead from the tissue via the slit. For example, once the tissue is initially slit, a surgeon may be able to extract the lead from the tissue, by pulling the lead with the use of a lead locking, or similar, device. This lead extraction may be made possible by the initial slit reducing the restrictive forces caused by tissue growth in a given area. Lead extraction may also be effected by moving the lead against the initial slit created to tear through the tissue growth.

The tissue growth may need to be slit or cut along an entire length of tissue growth such that the tissue growth is no longer capable of imparting clamping, or constrictive, forces around the lead. Once the tissue growth is slit along its length, removal of the lead from the section of tissue growth can be achieved using various lead removal techniques, including but not limited to, traction/counter-traction applied to the lead and growth, lead locking devices, snares, sheath insertion, moving the lead against the slit portion of the tissue, and the like.

Accordingly, there is a need for a device, method and/or system such as a device that includes a tissue slitting or cutting edge that facilitates slitting a length of formed tissue surrounding a lead, and optionally a method and system capable of removing the lead from the formed tissue that captures at least a portion of an implanted lead.

In an embodiment, a tissue slitting apparatus is provided comprising: a shaft, wherein the shaft is flexible, the shaft having a proximal and a distal end, and wherein the shaft includes an inner lumen running from the proximal to the distal end to receive at least one of an implanted object and mechanical traction device; and a radiative energy emitting device disposed adjacent to the distal end of the shaft, wherein the radiative energy emitting device is configured to ablate a separation in a tissue growth along a side and a length of the tissue growth, and wherein the tissue slitting apparatus separates a first, but not a second, portion of the tissue growth around a circumference of the implanted object.

In another embodiment, a method is provided comprising: separating only a portion of a tissue growth at least substantially surrounding an implanted object in a patient; and thereafter removing the implanted object from the tissue growth. In one embodiment, the separating and thereafter removing steps may comprise the sub-steps: attaching a mechanical traction device to the implanted object; inserting the mechanical traction device into a tissue slitting apparatus, the tissue slitting apparatus further comprising: a flexible shaft, wherein the flexible shaft has a proximal and a distal end; an internal lumen, wherein the internal lumen is configured to allow at least one of an implanted object and mechanical traction device to pass therethrough; and a radiative energy emitting device operatively connected with the distal end of the flexible shaft; applying a mechanical traction force to the mechanical traction device; indexing the tissue slitting apparatus to an engagement area of the tissue growth in contact with the implanted object; moving the radiative energy emitting device adjacent to the tissue growth; and activating the radiative energy emitting device, such that a section of the tissue growth is ablated and separated from the implanted object at least at the engagement area with the radiative energy emitting device.

In yet another embodiment, a system to remove tissue from a vascular lumen is provided, the system comprising: a lead locking device for locking onto a lead within the vascular lumen; a flexible shaft comprising: a proximal end; a distal end comprising a radiative energy emitting device capable of ablating tissue; and an internal lumen configured to allow at least one lead to pass therethrough, wherein the lead locking device holds the lead while the radiative energy emitting device ablates tissue surrounding at least a portion of the lead.

The method can include the steps of cutting only a portion of a tissue growth at least substantially surrounding an implanted object in a patient and thereafter removing the implanted object. In embodiments disclosed herein, the tissue growth may be subjected to a slitting action about a partial (i.e., not complete) periphery of an internal diameter of the tissue growth. In some embodiments, the tissue growth portion cut can be no more than about 50% of a perimeter of the tissue growth adjacent to and surrounding, substantially or completely, the implanted object at any point along an encased length of the implanted object.

The tissue slitting edge may include sharpened area, point, or blade, in a static fixed and/or dynamically deployable configuration. Additionally or alternatively, the tissue slitting edge may utilize grinding mechanisms to cause a slit in the formed tissue. Additionally or alternatively, the tissue slitting edge may utilize emitted energy, such as light, thermal energy, electromagnetic energy, and/or high-pressure fluid emission to cause a slit in the formed tissue. The tissue slitting edge can be an energy device, such as a power sheath, which typically applies a form of energy at the sheath tip to cut the scar tissue away from the lead thus allowing for removal. As the sheath is pushed over the lead and comes to an area of attachment, the operator can turn on the sheath's energy source to heat or vaporize scar tissue, forming the desired slit. One of these specialized sheaths uses electrocautery, similar to what is used to cut through tissue in surgery. Another sheath has one or more tiny lasers at its tip or edge. When activated, the lasers vaporize water molecules in scar tissue within 1 mm, forming the desired slit or cut. Additionally or alternatively, dilating telescopic sheaths or inflatable balloons having a longitudinally positioned tissue slitting edge can be expanded, thereby deploying the tissue slitting edge to form the desired slit.

Accordingly, slitting devices (e.g., in the form of knife-edges, blades, planers, lasers and other electromagnetic radiation emitters, high-pressure fluid, grinders, sanders, drills, RF devices, ultrasonic devices, and the like) can be configured in various combinations and methods by which formed tissue can be removed from an implanted lead subjected to any combination of connection modes via the formed tissue.

Removal of the formed tissue, or tissue growth, from a lead may be effected by creating a slit, or cut, along a length of the tissue growth. By slitting the formed tissue along an axial portion, or length, of the tissue connected to the surgically implanted device or surgical implant, it is anticipated that the connection to the implanted lead will be severely weakened. In many cases, the tissue slitting device may allow the implanted lead to essentially peel away from the tissue previously surrounding the implanted lead, thereby releasing it from containment. These and other needs are addressed by the various aspects, embodiments, and/or configurations of the present disclosure. Also, while the disclosure is presented in terms of exemplary embodiments, it should be appreciated that individual aspects of the disclosure can be separately claimed.

The tissue slitting device includes a flexible shaft having a proximal end, a distal end, and an internal lumen having an internal diameter configured to allow a lead, lead locking device, and/or other implanted device to pass through it. The device may also include a tissue slitting tip operatively coupled with the distal end of the flexible shaft. As can be appreciated, the slitting of formed tissue can be performed by at least one of cutting, drilling, slicing, stripping, chopping, sanding, grinding, planing, abrasion, high-pressure fluid, laser ablation, and combinations thereof. It is anticipated that the tissue slitting device may be oriented within a patient via use of the flexible shaft and monitor, or a catheter-based system. In some cases, the tissue slitting device may be positioned toward the center of the vasculature, and/or proximal to a non-traumatic leading edge, such that any sharp, or working, edge is caused to contact tissue growth and not contact the vasculature.

Among other things, the slitting section of the tissue slitting device may be biased against a lead/object via spring force. Additionally or alternatively, the tissue slitting device may include a flexible portion configured to allow the tissue slitting device to move as directed within a patient.

The phrases “at least one”, “one or more”, and “and/or” are open-ended expressions that are both conjunctive and disjunctive in operation. For example, each of the expressions “at least one of A, B and C”, “at least one of A, B, or C”, “one or more of A, B, and C”, “one or more of A, B, or C” and “A, B, and/or C” means A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, or A, B and C together. When each one of A, B, and C in the above expressions refers to an element, such as X, Y, and Z, or class of elements, such as X₁-X_(n), Y₁-Y_(m), and Z₁-Z_(o), the phrase is intended to refer to a single element selected from X, Y, and Z, a combination of elements selected from the same class (e.g., X₁ and X₂) as well as a combination of elements selected from two or more classes (e.g., Y₁ and Z_(o)).

The term “a” or “an” entity refers to one or more of that entity. As such, the terms “a” (or “an”), “one or more” and “at least one” can be used interchangeably herein. It is also to be noted that the terms “comprising”, “including”, and “having” can be used interchangeably.

“Electromagnetic radiation” (EM radiation or EMR) is a form of energy emitted and/or absorbed by charged particles, which exhibits wave-like behavior as it travels through space. EMR has both electric and magnetic field components, which stand in a fixed ratio of intensity to each other, and which oscillate in phase perpendicular to each other and perpendicular to the direction of energy and wave propagation. EM radiation is commonly classified by wavelength into radio, microwave, infrared, the visible spectrum perceived as visible light, ultraviolet, X-rays, and gamma rays. “Radiation” includes both EM radiation and static electric and magnetic and near fields.

A “lead” is a conductive structure, typically an electrically insulated coiled wire. The electrically conductive material can be any conductive material, with metals and intermetallic alloys common. The outer sheath of insulative material is biocompatible and biostable (e.g., non-dissolving in the body) and generally includes organic materials such as polyurethane and polyimide. Lead types include, by way of non-limiting example, epicardial and endocardial leads. Leads are commonly implanted into a body percutaneously or surgically.

A “surgical implant” is a medical device manufactured to replace a missing biological structure, support, stimulate, or treat a damaged biological structure, or enhance, stimulate, or treat an existing biological structure. Medical implants are man-made devices, in contrast to a transplant, which is a transplanted biomedical tissue. In some cases implants contain electronics, including, without limitation, artificial pacemaker, defibrillator, electrodes, and cochlear implants. Some implants are bioactive, including, without limitation, subcutaneous drug delivery devices in the form of implantable pills or drug-eluting stents.

The term “means” as used herein shall be given its broadest possible interpretation in accordance with 35 U.S.C., Section 112, Paragraph 6. Accordingly, a claim incorporating the term “means” shall cover all structures, materials, or acts set forth herein, and all of the equivalents thereof. Further, the structures, materials or acts and the equivalents thereof shall include all those described in the summary of the invention, brief description of the drawings, detailed description, abstract, and claims themselves.

It should be understood that every maximum numerical limitation given throughout this disclosure is deemed to include each and every lower numerical limitation as an alternative, as if such lower numerical limitations were expressly written herein. Every minimum numerical limitation given throughout this disclosure is deemed to include each and every higher numerical limitation as an alternative, as if such higher numerical limitations were expressly written herein. Every numerical range given throughout this disclosure is deemed to include each and every narrower numerical range that falls within such broader numerical range, as if such narrower numerical ranges were all expressly written herein.

The preceding is a simplified summary of the disclosure to provide an understanding of some aspects of the disclosure. This summary is neither an extensive nor exhaustive overview of the disclosure and its various aspects, embodiments, and configurations. It is intended neither to identify key or critical elements of the disclosure nor to delineate the scope of the disclosure but to present selected concepts of the disclosure in a simplified form as an introduction to the more detailed description presented below. As will be appreciated, other aspects, embodiments, and configurations of the disclosure are possible utilizing, alone or in combination, one or more of the features set forth above or described in detail below

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings are incorporated into and form a part of the specification to illustrate several examples of the present disclosure. These drawings, together with the description, explain the principles of the disclosure. The drawings simply illustrate preferred and alternative examples of how the disclosure can be made and used and are not to be construed as limiting the disclosure to only the illustrated and described examples. Further features and advantages will become apparent from the following, more detailed, description of the various aspects, embodiments, and configurations of the disclosure, as illustrated by the drawings referenced below.

FIG. 1 shows an exemplary patient vasculature in section with implanted lead and multiple locations of tissue growth in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 2A shows a detail section view of a patient vasculature and implanted lead subjected to a traction force in a first path in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 2B shows a detail section view of a patient vasculature and implanted lead subjected to a traction force in second path in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 2C shows a detail section view of a patient vasculature and implanted lead subjected to a traction force in third path in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 3 shows a section view of a curved area of vasculature with tissue growth formed around an implanted lead in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 4 shows a cross-sectional view of the curved area of vasculature of FIG. 3 taken along line A-A;

FIG. 5A shows a cross-sectional view of an area of vasculature with a tissue slitting device introduced in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 5B shows a cross-sectional view of an area of vasculature with a tissue slitting device engaging formed tissue in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 5C shows a cross-sectional view of an area of vasculature with a tissue slitting device slitting formed tissue in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 6A shows a section view of a curved area of vasculature with a tissue slitting device first introduced in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 6B shows a section view of a curved area of vasculature with a tissue slitting device in a first slitting position in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 6C shows a section view of a curved area of vasculature with a tissue slitting device in a second slitting position in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 6D shows a section view of a curved area of vasculature with a tissue slitting device in a third slitting position in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 7A shows a section view of a tissue slitting device in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 7B shows a perspective view of the tissue slitting device of FIG. 7A;

FIG. 8 shows a perspective view of a tissue slitting device in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 9A shows a plan view of a tissue slitting device in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 9B shows an end view of a tissue slitting device in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 10 shows a first embodiment of a tissue slitting device inside an area of vasculature having formed tissue surrounding an implanted lead in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 11 shows a second embodiment of a tissue slitting device inside an area of vasculature having formed tissue surrounding an implanted lead in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 12 shows a third embodiment of a tissue slitting device inside an area of vasculature having formed tissue surrounding an implanted lead in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 13 shows a fourth embodiment of a tissue slitting device inside an area of vasculature having formed tissue surrounding an implanted lead in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 14A shows a first configuration of a fifth embodiment of a tissue slitting device inside an area of vasculature having formed tissue surrounding an implanted lead in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 14B shows a second configuration of the fifth embodiment of a tissue slitting device inside an area of vasculature having formed tissue surrounding an implanted lead in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 15A shows a first configuration of a sixth embodiment of a tissue slitting device inside an area of vasculature having formed tissue surrounding an implanted lead in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 15B shows a second configuration of a sixth embodiment of a tissue slitting device inside an area of vasculature having formed tissue surrounding an implanted lead in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 16 shows a seventh embodiment of a tissue slitting device inside an area of vasculature having formed tissue surrounding an implanted lead in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 17 shows a eighth embodiment of a tissue slitting device inside an area of vasculature having formed tissue surrounding an implanted lead in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 18 shows a ninth embodiment of a tissue slitting device inside an area of vasculature having formed tissue surrounding an implanted lead in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 19A shows a perspective view of a tenth embodiment of a tissue slitting device in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 19B shows a section view of the tissue slitting device of FIG. 19A;

FIG. 20 shows an eleventh embodiment of a tissue slitting device inside an area of vasculature having formed tissue surrounding an implanted lead in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 21 shows an end view of a twelfth embodiment of a tissue slitting device in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 22 shows an end view of a thirteenth embodiment of a tissue slitting device in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 23 shows an end view of a fourteenth embodiment of a tissue slitting device in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 24 shows an end view of a fifteenth embodiment of a tissue slitting device in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 25 shows an end view of a sixteenth embodiment of a tissue slitting device in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 26 shows a seventeenth embodiment of a tissue slitting device inside an area of vasculature having formed tissue surrounding an implanted lead in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 27 is a flow diagram depicting a tissue slitting method in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure; and

FIG. 28 shows an embodiment of a grinding tissue slitting device inside an area of vasculature having formed tissue surrounding an implanted lead in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

It should be understood that the drawings are not necessarily to scale. In certain instances, details that are not necessary for an understanding of the disclosure or that render other details difficult to perceive may have been omitted. It should be understood, of course, that the disclosure is not necessarily limited to the particular embodiments illustrated herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Before any embodiments of the disclosure are explained in detail, it is to be understood that the disclosure is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the following drawings. The disclosure is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. The use of “including,” “comprising,” or “having” and variations thereof herein is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items.

Embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to tissue slitting or cutting devices and methods of using tissue slitting devices to remove an implanted lead from within the vascular system of a patient. Among other things, the method of removing an implanted lead from formed tissue may include causing at least a partial separation of tissue that lies along an axial length of the implanted lead. In some embodiments, the tissue may be slit or cut along an entire length of the tissue growth to enable removal of the implanted lead. In other embodiments, the tissue may be slit or cut along a section of the tissue growth to allow an implanted lead to be removed from a patient.

While the phrases “tissue slitting edge” or “tissue cutting edge” are used in this disclosure, it is not limited to a blade or other cutting surface. These phrases are further intended to encompass any modality for slitting or cutting tissue, including the various modalities discussed herein. Nonlimiting examples include not only a sharpened area, point, or blade but also an abrasive or cutting wire or fiber, atherotomes (microsurgical blades) mounted on an inflatable (cutting) balloon, a grinder, high intensity light such as produced by a laser, thermal or infrared energy, electromagnetic energy, and/or high-pressure fluid.

FIG. 1 depicts an exemplary patient 102 with an implanted lead 104 running along the left innonimate vein 112 past the superior vena cava (“SVC”) and connected into, or about, the right ventricle of the heart 106. Along the length of the lead 104 at least one formed tissue growth 108 is shown where the tissue 108 may completely surround a section of the lead 104. In a typical lead 104 explant procedure, the one or more of the tissue growths 108 may act to contain the lead 104. For example, the tissue 108 may impart one or more forces (e.g., constrictive, shear, compression, and the like) on the lead 104 that may act to prevent successful removal of the lead 104 when subjected to a traction force 120.

FIGS. 2A-C show examples of an implanted lead 104 subjected to a traction force via different paths in a patient 102 vasculature. Accordingly, the methods and/or devices disclosed in conjunction with any of the FIGS. 2A-C may equally apply to all instances disclosed.

FIG. 2A shows a detail view of a heart 106 having an implanted lead 104 subjected to a traction force 120 in a first path in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, a lead 104 explant procedure may involve removing the lead from a patient 102 via one or more paths. For example, a lead-locking, or other traction, device may be engaged with the lead 104 and then used to pull the lead 104 from a patient. However, in some cases the lead 104 may be contained by a formed tissue growth 108 that resists the traction force 120 applied to the lead 104. As can be appreciated, subjecting the lead 104 to excessive traction forces 120 may cause a tear inside the patient 102 where the tissue is attached to the vasculature. In one example, a tissue growth 108 may form along a critical area of the vasculature, such as the SVC curve 116, of a patient. If this critical area is torn during a lead 104 explant procedure, the result can be fatal to the patient 102.

Complicating the lead 104 removal process is the fact that the tissue growth 108 surrounding a lead 104 may attach to a vessel in a curved portion of the vasculature. Removal of the lead 104 from such a curved portion of vasculature can present a challenge when introducing tissue removal devices alone or in conjunction with traction devices. In some cases, the tissue removal devices include sharp edges, aggressive tips, or imprecise actuation mechanisms that can puncture the thin walls of a patient 102 vasculature. It is an aspect of the present disclosure to orient a tissue slitting working end adjacent to the unconnected, or tissue free, side 124 of a vessel wall. This orientation can prevent puncture and/or damage occurring to the vasculature at the tissue connected side 128 of the vessel wall.

Referring now to FIG. 2B a detail section view of a patient vasculature and implanted lead 104 subjected to a traction force 120 in second path in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. In some instances, at least one end of the lead 104 may be directed inside a patient 102 for removal via a path within the vasculature. Direction of the lead 104 may be effected via a snaring tool, lead-locking device, traction device, combinations thereof, and the like. As shown in FIG. 2B, the lead 104 is directed toward the general direction of a patient's femoral artery via the inferior vena cava. The lead 104 may be directed in the manner shown to provide additional tearing forces on the tissue growth 108 by the lead 104 being subjected to a traction force 120. In one embodiment, the tissue growth 108 may be at least partially slit and the tearing forces created by pulling the lead 104 along the traction force 120 line cause the lead 104 to separate from the tissue growth 108. In other embodiments, a tissue slitting device may be run along the lead 104 to the tissue growth 108 via the femoral artery.

In some embodiments, the lead 104 may be captured and pulled such that the pull force causes the lead 104 to turn inside a patient 102. This mode of capture and pulling may cause a bending at a first connection point between the tissue growth 108 and the lead 104. When the tissue slitting device is engaged with the tissue growth 108, the assistive bending force provided by the traction force 120 can aid in slitting the tissue growth 108. For instance, the bending force may cause a stretching of the tissue growth 108 where the lead engages with the tissue growth 108. This stretching of tissue may assist in the slitting operation by causing tension on the fibers of the tissue growth 108 that, when slit, pull away from the tissue slitting device engagement area. As can be expected, the slitting operation may be performed in any area within a patient that is capable of receiving a tissue slitting device.

FIG. 2C shows a detail section view of a patient vasculature and implanted lead 104 subjected to a traction force 120 in third path in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure. Similar to FIGS. 2A and 2B, the lead 104 may be directed along a path in the patient vasculature. In this case, the lead 104 may be directed toward the general direction of a patient's jugular vein.

As can be appreciated, the path chosen for removal of a lead 104 from a patient 102 may depend on one or more of the orientation of the lead 104 within a patient 102, the state of the at least one tissue growth 108, the lead removal device used, and the tissue slitting device used. In some cases, the lead 104 (e.g., pacing, defibrillator, etc.), or other object, may have moved after implantation. In these scenarios, the lead 104 may have to be captured via some other method. In some embodiments, a capturing tool equipped with a lasso, snare, or other lead grasping element may need to be inserted into the patient 102. As can be expected, the capturing tool may be inserted into the patient 102 via any number of the veins and/or arteries that are interconnected to the lead 104 location in the vasculature. For example, the lead 104 may be grasped via a capturing tool that has been inserted through a patient's femoral artery and led to the point of the vasculature where the lead's 104 free end may be located.

In some embodiments, rather than attach a separate mechanical traction device, the capturing tool may be used to provide traction force 120 during the tissue slitting operation. In accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure, the lead may be grasped via a capturing tool, or lead-locking device, and/or removed via some other pathway in the vasculature. In other words, the lead may be accessed via one or more veins, arteries, chambers, biological channels, and/or other sections of the vasculature of a patient 102.

FIG. 3 shows a section view of a curved area of vasculature with tissue growth 108 formed around an implanted lead 104 in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. The tissue growth 108 may completely surround a section of the lead 104 and even be attached to a vessel wall at a tissue connected side 128 of the vasculature. In some cases, the tissue growth 108 may not be adhered to at least one free side 124 of a vessel, such that a vessel opening 126 exists where bodily fluid may pass through the vessel unobstructed. Surprisingly and unexpectedly, it has been discovered that the tissue growth 108, before attempted lead extraction, is commonly at least substantially free of and even more commonly completely free of attachment to the lead 104.

FIG. 4 shows a cross-sectional view of the curved area of vasculature of FIG. 3 taken along line A-A. In some embodiments, reference may be made to the tissue growth 108 forming a tube 132 (or cylindrical or sock-like structure) around the implanted lead 104. Previous methods have been disclosed that are directed to separating the tissue around the lead 104 in the area defined by the tube 132. It is an aspect of the present disclosure to provide one or more methods and devices to effectively separate the tissue growth 108 along a length of the lead to release the lead 104 from the containing forces of the tissue growth 108. In some embodiments, the tissue growth 108 may be slit at a portion of the tissue growth 108 where the thickness of tissue is minimal between the lead 104 and the open area 126 of the vessel.

In embodiments disclosed herein, the tissue growth 108 may be subjected to a slitting action about a partial (i.e., not complete) periphery of an internal diameter of the tissue growth 108. Stated another way, at any selected point along the tissue growth 108 or tube 132 the amount of the adjacent tissue cut or slit 130 to free the lead 104 is commonly no more than about 50%, more commonly no more than about 25%, more commonly no more than about 10%, and even more commonly no more than about 5% of the diameter of the tissue growth 108 or tube 132. The length of the cut or slit 130 in the tissue growth 108 or tube 132 is commonly at least about 50%, more commonly at least about 75%, more commonly at least about 90%, and even more commonly at least about 95% of the total length of the portion of the lead 104 surrounded by the tissue growth 108 or tube 132 along an actual and projected line of the cut or slit.

FIGS. 5A-C show a cross-section of a vessel where a tissue slitting device 504 is progressively engaged with a tissue growth 108. As shown, the tissue slitting device causes a section of the tissue growth 108 to separate from a portion of the lead 104 allowing the forces containing the lead 104 to be severely weakened and/or eliminated.

Referring to FIG. 5A a cross-sectional view of an area of vasculature with a tissue slitting device 504 introduced therein in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. The tissue slitting device 504 includes a tissue slitting tip 508 that is configured to separate tissue growth 108. In one embodiment, the tissue slitting tip 508 may be oriented such that a slitting operation is performed on the thinnest section of tissue growth 108 between the lead 104 and the open area 126 of the vessel. Orientation of the tissue slitting device 504 may be achieved in operation via a fluoroscopy and/or other monitoring devices and the use of one or more radiopaque markers on the tissue slitting device 504. Once the tissue slitting device 504 is oriented, the tissue slitting device 504 may contact the tissue growth 108 at an engagement area 510.

In any of the embodiments disclosed herein, the tissue slitting device may include an imaging system configured to provide an image from within the vasculature of a patient 102. It is anticipated that the imaging system may be disposed adjacent to the distal tip of the tissue slitting device. Examples of such imaging systems may include, but are in no way limited to, technology incorporating Intravascular Ultrasound (“IVUS”), Optical Coherence Tomography (“OCT”), radio imaging, magnetic tracking, three-dimensional (“3D”) imaging, and other technologies that may be used to obtain an image within a patient.

FIG. 5B shows a cross-sectional view of an area of vasculature with a tissue slitting device 504 engaging formed tissue 108 in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. As the tissue slitting device 504 engages the tissue growth 108 the tissue slitting device 504, may slit the tissue growth 108 by splitting, cutting, tearing, grinding, sanding, ablating, and/or otherwise causing a separation of tissue at the engagement area 510.

FIG. 5C shows a cross-sectional view of an area of vasculature with a tissue slitting device 504 slitting formed tissue 108 in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 5C, the tissue growth 108 is separated along a section of the lead 104 about the engagement area 510. In some embodiments, the tissue slitting device may be subsequently removed from the tissue growth 108 by moving the lead 104 in the direction of the separated tissue.

FIGS. 6A-D show a section view of a curved area of vasculature where an embodiment of a tissue slitting device 604 is progressively engaged with a tissue growth 108. As shown, the tissue slitting device 604 causes a section of the tissue growth 108 to separate from a portion of the lead 104 allowing the forces containing the lead 104 to be severely weakened and/or eliminated.

FIG. 6A shows a section view of a curved area of vasculature with a tissue slitting device 604 first introduced in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. The tissue slitting device 604 is indexed into position via a directional force 618 adjacent to the tissue growth 108. The directional force 618 may be applied to the tissue slitting device 604 via one or more mechanical actuators, electrical actuators, manual positioning, and combinations thereof.

In some embodiments, the tissue slitting device 604 includes a flexible shaft having a proximal end, a distal end 612, and an internal lumen 616 having an internal diameter configured to allow a lead, lead locking device, and/or other implanted device to pass through it. The device may also include a tissue slitting tip 608 operatively attached to the distal end 612 of the flexible shaft. As can be appreciated, the slitting of formed tissue can be performed by at least one of cutting, drilling, slicing, stripping, chopping, sanding, grinding, planing, abrasion, high-pressure fluid, laser ablation, and combinations thereof. It is anticipated that the tissue slitting device 604 may be oriented within a patient via use of the flexible shaft and monitor, or a catheter-based system. In some cases, the tissue slitting device 604 may be positioned toward the center of the vasculature, and/or proximal to a non-traumatic leading edge, such that any sharp, or working, edge is caused to contact tissue growth 108 and not contact the vasculature (e.g., the tissue connected side 128 wall and the free side 124 wall of a vessel).

Additionally or alternatively, the tissue slitting tip 608 and effective slitting section of the tissue slitting device 604 may be biased against a lead 104 via spring force. In some embodiments, the tissue slitting device 604 may include a flexible portion configured to allow the tissue slitting device 604 to move as directed within a patient.

FIG. 6B shows a section view of a curved area of vasculature with a tissue slitting device 604 in a first slitting position in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. As the tissue slitting device 604 is directed into the tissue growth 108, the tissue slitting tip 608 causes the tissue growth 108 to separate along the engagement area 610. The separated tissue 614 allows the tissue slitting device 604 to be further engaged with the tissue growth 108. Additionally or alternatively, the separated tissue 604, by releasing forces containing the lead, can allow the lead 104 to be moved about the area of the tissue slitting tip 608.

FIG. 6C shows a section of a curved area of vasculature with the tissue slitting device 604 in a second slitting position in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. As the tissue slitting device 604 is indexed in a direction 618 into the tissue growth 108 the tissue slitting device 604 separates tissue along an axial length of at least one side of the lead 104. In some embodiments, the lead 104 may be subjected to a traction force 120 that may be opposite to the index direction 618 of the tissue slitting device 604. This applied traction force 120 may assist in pulling the lead 104 away from the tissue growth 108 as the lead 104 is separated from containing tissue growth 108.

FIG. 6D shows a section view of a curved area of vasculature with a tissue slitting device 604 in a third slitting position in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. In general, the tissue slitting device 604 is indexed further into the tissue growth 108 such that the tissue growth 108 is almost completely separated from the lead 104 along a length of the tissue growth 108. In some embodiments, slitting at least a portion of the tissue growth 108 may allow the lead 104 to be removed in an explant procedure. For instance, the lead 104 may be subjected to a traction force 120 to pull the lead 104 away from any remaining the tissue growth 108. Additionally or alternatively, the lead 104 may be pulled against the remaining tissue growth 108 that surrounds the lead 104. In other embodiments, the tissue slitting device 604 may be indexed along the entire length of the tissue growth 108 to completely separate the tissue growth 108 from encapsulating, or surrounding, the lead 104.

Cutting Embodiments

FIGS. 7A-12 are directed to embodiments of a tissue slitting device that include one or more cutting features that are configured to cut at least a portion of a tissue growth 108 along a lead 104 implanted in a patient 102. FIGS. 10-12 show embodiments of the tissue slitting device inside an area of vasculature where an implanted lead 104 is encapsulated by a tissue growth 108. In addition to surrounding the lead 104 along a section, the tissue growth 108 is connected to a portion of the vessel wall.

In any of the embodiments disclosed herein the cutting surface may be guarded by a mechanical sheath. A mechanical sheath may include at least one surface that acts to guard and/or protect a cutting surface from being accidentally exposed to one or more sensitive areas of the vasculature during navigation of a tissue slitting device within a patient 102. In one embodiment, a mechanical sheath may at least partially shroud a portion of a cutting surface with a compliant material (e.g., silicone, polyurethane, rubber, polymer, combinations thereof, and the like). It is anticipated that the compliant material may be compressed when subjected to an operation force. The compression of the compliant material may subsequently expose the cutting surface of the tissue slitting device.

In another embodiment, the mechanical sheath may include a non-compliant material (e.g., metal, carbon fiber, plastic, resin, combinations thereof, and the like) that is configured to at least partially shroud a portion of a cutting surface. The non-compliant material mechanical sheath may be configured to at least partially shroud the cutting surface via a compliant member (e.g., spring, flexure, compliant material, combinations thereof, etc.) in connection with the non-compliant member that maintains a shrouded position of the non-compliant material mechanical sheath. Upon subjecting the non-compliant material mechanical sheath to an operational force, the operational force may be directed to the compliant member, which subsequently exposes the cutting surface from the mechanical sheath.

Referring now to FIGS. 7A and 7B a tissue slitting device 704 is shown in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the tissue slitting device 704 comprises an inner lumen 716, at least one cutting surface, or knife-edge 708, a wedge tapered section 720, and a tapered section transition 724. The inner lumen 716 can be disposed between the proximal and distal end of the tissue slitting device 704. In some embodiments, the inner lumen 716 may be configured to allow a lead 104 and/or other objects to pass therethrough (e.g., a lead-locking device, fraction device, snare tool, etc). As can be appreciated, the tissue slitting device 704 may be indexed and/or guided along the lead 104 via the inner lumen 716 of the device 704.

The tissue slitting device 704 may be configured to engage with the tissue growth 108 in a patient 102 at a distal tip 712 of the device 704. In some embodiments, the distal tip 712 of the device may be equipped with a knife-edge 708 configured to cut the tissue growth 108. Additionally, the knife-edge 708 may be configured to part the tissue as it cuts. In other words, the knife-edge 708 of the distal tip 712 may include a wedge shape 720. As the knife-edge 708 is moved into the tissue growth 108, the cutting surface of the knife-edge 708 may sever the tissue while simultaneously parting it along the wedge shape 720 of the device 704. In some embodiments, the wedge shape 720 may cause a parting of separated tissue and bias the cutting surface of the knife-edge 708 against remaining tissue growth 108 attached to the lead 104. Additionally or alternatively, the wedge shape 720 may be configured as a scalloped shape that can provide added strength to the structure of the distal tip 712 of the tissue slitting device 704.

In some embodiments, the distal tip 712 of the tissue slitting device 704 includes a knife-edge 708 disposed at the most distal portion of the tip 712 and a tapered wedge section 720 proximal to the knife-edge 708. The tapered wedge section 720 may be configured in one or more shapes designed to slope proximal from the knife-edge 708 distal end. The proximal end point of the tapered wedge section may include a smooth surface 724 that transitions from the tapered slope angle of the tip to the circumferential surface of the device 704. In some embodiments, the smooth surface 724 may include a radius joining the circumferential surface with the distal tip 712. The taper and/or radius may be configured to reduce trauma during navigation through the vasculature and/or during the cutting of tissue.

In any of the embodiments disclosed herein, the taper associated with the distal tip of the tissue slitting device may be configured with various shapes, angles, and dimensions. In one embodiment, the taper may be arranged at an angle ranging from 10 to 50 degrees from a plane that is coincident with at least two points on an axis running along the lumen of the tissue slitting device. As can be appreciated, the tapered section of the distal tip of the tissue slitting device may be defined by its axial length from the distal end. In one embodiment, the axial length of the tapered section of the distal tip may range from 0.025″ to 0.500″. In another embodiment, the axial length of the tapered section of the distal tip may range from 0.050″ to 0.300″.

FIG. 8 shows a perspective view of a tissue slitting device 804 in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the tissue slitting device 804 comprises an inner lumen 816, at least one cutting surface, or knife-edge 808, a tapered section 820, and a tapered section transition 824. The inner lumen 816 may be configured to allow a lead 104 and/or other objects to pass therethrough (e.g., a lead-locking device, traction device, snare tool, etc). As can be appreciated, the tissue slitting device 804 may be indexed and/or guided along the lead 104 via the inner lumen 816 of the device 804. In one embodiment, the knife-edge 808 may at least partially surround the leading edges 828 adjacent to the knife-edge 808 at the distal portion of the tissue slitting device 804. In other embodiments, the knife-edge 808 may completely surround the leading edges at the distal portion of the tissue slitting device 804. As can be appreciated, embodiments of the present disclosure anticipate including a sufficiently sharp portion of the knife-edge configured to slit tissue. For example, some leads 104, or implanted devices may include dual-coils, exposed coils, and/or other undulating geometry. As such, tissue may be caused to form in and/or around the coils/geometry. It is anticipated that a tissue slitting tip, or knife-edge 808, with an extended blade portion 828 disposed at least partially around its distal circumference may remove this additionally formed tissue growth 108.

FIGS. 9A and 9B show a tissue slitting device 904 showing various cutting surface locations in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the tissue slitting device 904 comprises an inner lumen 916, at least one cutting surface, or knife-edge 908, a tapered section 920, and a tapered section transition 924. As shown in FIG. 9A, it is anticipated that the knife-edge 908 may be disposed at a distal end of the tissue slitting device 904. In other words, the knife-edge 908 may be oriented at a leading edge of a tissue slitting device 904. In one embodiment, and as shown in FIG. 9B, the knife-edge 908 may be disposed at least partially inside the lumen 916 of the tissue slitting device 904.

Additionally, tissue slitting devices disclosed herein may include at least one fluorescing material or marker (e.g., radiopaque band, marker, and the like). In some embodiments, the radiopaque marker may be arranged about and/or adjacent to a knife-edge 908 of the tissue slitting device 904. The radiopaque marker, may assist in identifying a location of the knife-edge 908 via a monitoring device. Examples of radiopaque markers may include, but are in no way limited to, materials and/or particles containing tantalum, tungsten, carbide, iridium, bismuth oxide, barium sulfate, cobalt, platinum and/or alloys and combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the inner lumen 916 may be configured to allow a lead 104 and/or other objects to pass therethrough (e.g., a lead-locking device, traction device, snare tool, etc). As can be appreciated, the tissue slitting device 904 may be indexed and/or guided along the lead 104 via the inner lumen 916 of the device 904. Referring to FIG. 9B, a knife-edge 908 is oriented at least partially within the lumen 916 of the tissue slitting device 904, which may allow the device 904 to be routed through the vasculature of a patient 102 without presenting sharp edges, cutting surfaces, or knife-edges 908 toward sensitive areas. The knife-edge 908 oriented at least partially within the lumen 916 of the tissue slitting device 904 may allow the cutting surface of the knife-edge 908 to be biased toward the tissue growth 108 in connection with the lead 104. In another embodiment, the knife-edge 908 may be configured as a blade positioned perpendicular to the outer circumferential surface of the lead. The blade may be spring-loaded and/or arranged such that lead 104 is pushed against the blade when the tissue slitting device 904 is actuated along the axial length of the lead 104. Additionally, the blade may be equipped with a wedge 920 to peel the tissue away as it is being cut by the blade portion. Additionally or alternatively, the angle of the blade relative to the axis, and/or outer circumferential surface, of the lead 104 may be configured to achieve an adequate cutting angle in the tissue growth 108, such that the tissue 108 is slit in a manner to best achieve lead 104 removal. That is, due to the overall size of the lumen, a small angle itself may create a sharp leading edge sufficient to cut and slit the tissue growth 108. The angle may also create smooth translation and slitting of the remainder of the tissue as the tissue slitting device 904 traverses longitudinally along a direction of the lead 104.

Referring now to FIG. 10, a first embodiment of a tissue slitting device 1004 inside an area of vasculature having tissue growth 108 surrounding an implanted lead 104 is shown in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the tissue slitting device 1004 comprises an inner lumen 1016, at least one cutting surface 1008, a tapered section 1020, and a tapered section transition 1024. The inner lumen 1016 may be configured to allow a lead 104 and/or other objects to pass therethrough (e.g., a lead-locking device, traction device, snare tool, etc). As can be appreciated, the tissue slitting device 1004 may be indexed and/or guided along the lead 104 via the inner lumen 1016 of the device 1004. In one embodiment, a cutting surface (e.g., a blade) 1008 may be disposed such that the cutting surface 1008 is tangent to an inner lumen, or opening, 1016 in the body/sheath of the tissue slitting device 1004 (e.g., similar to a planing blade). As can be appreciated, the cutting surface 1008 may be arranged at an angle at the leading edge of the tissue slitting device 1004. The angle may be configured to present the cutting surface in the direction of formed tissue that is distally adjacent to the tip of the tissue slitting device 1004. As the device 1004 is further engaged with the tissue growth 108, the planing-style blade 1008 may be configured to remove a section of tissue 108 along at least one of a length and width of a lead 104.

FIG. 11 shows a second embodiment of a tissue slitting device 1104 inside an area of vasculature having tissue growth 108 surrounding an implanted lead 104 in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the tissue slitting device 1104 comprises an inner lumen 1116, at least one knife-edge 1408, a wedge and/or ramp 1122, a tapered section 1120, and a tapered section transition 1124. The inner lumen 1116 may be configured to allow a lead 104 and/or other objects to pass therethrough (e.g., a lead-locking device, fraction device, snare tool, etc). As can be appreciated, the tissue slitting device 1104 may be indexed and/or guided along the lead 104 via the inner lumen 1116 of the device 1104. The knife-edge 1108 may include a blade that is positioned tangent to the outer circumferential surface of the lead 104. The blade may be spring-loaded and/or arranged such that the lead 104 is pushed against the blade when the tissue slitting device 1104 is actuated along the axial length of the lead 104. Additionally, the knife-edge 1108, or blade, may be equipped with a wedge, or ramp, 1120 to part the tissue as it is being cut by the blade. As can be expected, the angle of the blade relative to the axis of the lead 104 may be configured to achieve an adequate stripping of tissue growth 108 in a specific area, such that the tissue 108 is slit at the specific area.

In some embodiments, the knife-edge 1108 may be mechanically actuated to assist in cutting tissue growth 108. For instance, the knife-edge 1108 may be configured to move along an axis defined by at least one sharp edge of the knife-edge 1108. Actuation of the knife-edge 1108 may be achieved via a mechanism operatively connected to the knife-edge 1108 that can move the blade from one direction along the axis defined by at least one sharp edge to the opposite direction along the axis defined by the at least one sharp edge. This oscillating movement may be made at a sub-ultrasonic frequency. Additionally or alternatively, the oscillating blade may move at an ultrasonic frequency. In one embodiment, the frequency of oscillation of the knife-edge 1108 may be adjusted to suit preferences of the operator.

In another embodiment, the knife-edge 1108 may be configured to move along an axis that is perpendicular to an axis created by the at least one sharp edge of the knife-edge 1108. In other words, the knife-edge 1108 may be configured to move from a proximal position to a distal position along the axis of the tissue slitting device 1104. As can be appreciated, the movement of the knife-edge 1108 may be actuated to repetitively move from the proximal position to the distal position and back to the proximal position. This oscillating movement may be made at a sub-ultrasonic frequency. Additionally or alternatively, the oscillating blade may move at an ultrasonic frequency. In one embodiment, the frequency of oscillation of the knife-edge 1108 may be adjusted to suit preferences of the operator.

FIG. 12 shows a third embodiment of a tissue slitting device 1204 inside an area of vasculature having formed tissue growth 108 surrounding an implanted lead 104 in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the tissue slitting device 1204 comprises an inner lumen 1216, at least one cutting surface 1208, a tapered section 1220, a tapered section transition 1224, and a tissue tension taper 1222. The inner lumen 1216 may be configured to allow a lead 104 and/or other objects to pass therethrough (e.g., a lead-locking device, fraction device, snare tool, etc). As can be appreciated, the tissue slitting device 1204 may be indexed and/or guided along the lead 104 via the inner lumen 1216 of the device 1204. In one embodiment, the cutting surface 1208 of the tissue slitting device 1204 may be oriented proximal to the leading edge 1226 of the distal tip 1212 of the tissue slitting device 1204. The cutting surface 1208 may be arranged such that any sharp edge is concealed behind a smooth and/or dull surface. This arrangement can allow the tissue slitting device 1204 to be safely routed within a convoluted vasculature of a patient 102. Additionally or alternatively, the tapered surfaces 1220, 1222 of the leading edge 1226 allows the tissue growth to be stretched as it is engaged and presented to the cutting surface. As disclosed herein, the stretching of the tissue growth 108 fibers assists in the cutting operation performed by the tissue slitting device 1204. Among other things, the tension placed on the tissue growth 108 fibers provide a taught area for the cutting surface 1208 to engage and cut along. In some embodiments, the leading edge 1226 of the distal tip 1212 of the tissue slitting device 1204 may comprise a non-traumatic surface. For example, the leading edge 1226 may include a non-traumatic surface where at least some of the exposed sharp edges have been removed (e.g., a ball end, radiused surface, other curved section, etc.). Additionally or alternatively, the tapered surface 1222 may include a cutting surface. For instance, as the tapered surface 1222 wedges into and engages a tissue growth 108, it may simultaneously cut the tissue along the tapered surface 1222 as it stretches the fibers of the tissue growth 108.

In accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure, the knife-edge 708, 808, 908, 1008, 1108, 1208 may be advanced into the tissue growth 108. This advancement may be continuous or periodic. Additionally or alternatively, the knife-edge 708, 808, 908, 1008, 1108, 1208 may be actuated in a direction toward and away from the tissue such that the knife-edge 708, 808, 908, 1008, 1108, 1208 is presented to an area of the tissue growth 108, removed from the area, and represented to an area of the tissue growth 108 to successively cut the tissue growth 108 over a number of movements. For example, the tissue growth 108 is cut in a similar manner to that of an axe chopping at a tree. In any embodiment disclosed herein, traction force may be applied to the lead 104 during the cutting of the tissue growth 108. Among other things, traction force 120 can prevent tears, punctures, and other catastrophic failures caused by the force exerted on the tissue growth and/or adjacent vasculature by the tissue slitting device 704, 804, 904, 1004, 1104, 1204.

It is anticipated that the knife-edge may be manufactured from a material with a suitable hardness for slitting tissue. In some embodiments, the knife-edge 708, 808, 908, 1008, 1108, 1208 may be manufactured from a polymeric material with a durometer configured to cut a patient's tissue. Examples of polymeric material may include, but are not limited to, plastics, silicone, polytetrafluoroethylene (“PTFE”), polyethylene, polyurethane, polycarbonate, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride (“PVC”), polystyrene, acetal, polyacetal, acetal resin, polyformaldehyde, and the like. In one embodiment, the knife-edge 708, 808, 908, 1008, 1108, 1208 may be constructed from a crystalline or amorphous metal alloy. The knife-edge 708, 808, 908, 1008, 1108, 1208 may comprise at least a portion of the distal tip of the tissue slitting device 704, 804, 904, 1004, 1104, 1204. As can be appreciated, the knife-edge 708, 808, 908, 1008, 1108, 1208 may comprise a metal insert. Examples of knife-edge 708, 808, 908, 1008, 1108, 1208 metals may include, but are not limited to, steel, stainless steel (e.g., austenitic type 304, 316, martensitic type 420, 17-4, etc.), aluminum, titanium, tungsten carbide, silver, platinum, copper, and combinations thereof. In one embodiment, the metal may be hardened to, among other things, maintain a sharp edge during the tissue slitting process.

Additionally or alternatively, the knife-edge 708, 808, 908, 1008, 1108, 1208 or cutting surface may be removably attached to the distal tip of the tissue slitting device 704, 804, 904, 1004, 1104, 1204. Benefits of a removably attached knife-edge 708, 808, 908, 1008, 1108, 1208 allow for quick replacement of cutting surfaces during lead removal procedures. As can be appreciated, the replacement of the cutting surface may be initiated upon detecting that the cutting surface is dulling. In some cases the cutting surface may be replaced with a different style of blade. The style of blade may be configured to suit a number of desires, including but not limited to, navigating difficult areas in a patient (e.g., using a curved blade, etc.), cutting difficult, dense, and/or hard tissue (e.g., using a serrated blade, a hardened blade, and combinations thereof, etc.), cutting tissue in confined and/or low-growth areas (e.g., using a miniature blade), and even removing the blade completely (e.g., using the tissue slitting device as a counter-traction sheath, etc.).

In some embodiments, the tissue slitting devices disclosed herein may include at least one non-traumatic leading edge disposed at the most distal end of the device. The non-traumatic leading edge may include a distal end and a proximal end. Non-traumatic surfaces on the leading edge of the device may include but are not limited to, spheroidal, ball-nose, radiused, smooth, round, and/or other shapes having a reduced number of sharp edges. These non-traumatic surfaces may be configured to prevent accidental puncture or harmful contact with the patient 102. The non-traumatic leading edge may be configured to include a tapered and/or a wedge-shaped portion. In some cases the cross-sectional area of the tapered portion increases along a length of the non-traumatic leading edge from the distal end to the proximal end of the leading edge. A knife-edge and/or cutting surface may be disposed proximal to or along the tapered portion of the non-traumatic leading edge of the tissue slitting device.

The non-traumatic leading edge may be positioned to insert into an area between the tissue growth 108 and the implanted lead 104. In some cases the tapered geometry and the arrangement of the tissue slitting device tip may allow the most distal portion of the non-traumatic leading edge to bias against the lead 104 and wedge under any surrounding tissue growth 108. As the non-traumatic leading edge is indexed further into the tissue growth 108, the tissue growth is caused to stretch and pull away from the lead 104. Once the non-traumatic leading edge is engaged with the tissue growth 108, the cutting surface of the tissue slitting device may be caused to slit the tissue along a length of the tissue growth. As can be appreciated, the cutting surface may include but is not limited to one or more knife-edge and/or cutting devices disclosed herein.

Actuated Slitting Embodiments

FIG. 13 shows a fourth embodiment of a tissue slitting device 1304 inside an area of vasculature having formed tissue growth 108 surrounding an implanted lead 104 in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the tissue slitting device 1304 comprises an inner lumen 1316, at least one reciprocating cutting blade 1308, a reciprocating blade actuation element 1310, a tapered section 1320, and a tapered section transition 1324. The inner lumen 1316 may be configured to allow a lead 104 and/or other objects to pass therethrough (e.g., a lead-locking device, traction device, snare tool, etc). As can be appreciated, the tissue slitting device 1304 may be indexed and/or guided along the lead 104 via the inner lumen 1316 of the device 1304. In one embodiment, the knife-edge may be configured as a reciprocating blade 1308. In other words, the knife-edge may be configured to move back-and-forth in an axial direction 1318. This actuation may be independent of the movement of the outer shaft of the device 1304. The reciprocating motion of the blade 1308 may be achieved via a reciprocating actuator that is operatively connected proximal to the distal tip. The reciprocating actuator may be an electrical motor that is located at the proximal end of the flexible shaft. In some embodiments, the reciprocating actuator may be manually operated via a mechanical movement at the proximal end of the flexible shaft. In any event, energy from the actuator may be transferred to the blade 1308 via an actuation element 1310. It is anticipated that the actuation element 1310 may comprise one or more of a shaft, rod, bar, link, and the like, that is configured to transmit force from the proximal end of the tissue slitting device 1304 to the blade 1308.

In one embodiment, the reciprocating blade 1308 may be configured to move a cutting surface horizontal to the central axis of the tissue slitting device. In other words, rather than reciprocating along an axis of the tissue slitting device, as previously disclosed, the reciprocating blade in this embodiment may operate across (or side-to-side) the distal tip of the tissue slitting device. Additionally or alternatively, the actuation of the blade 1308, whether axial or side-to-side, may be provided at a frequency below 20 kHz. In some embodiments, the actuation frequency of the blade 1308 may exceed 20 kHz (e.g., ultrasonic range). In either case, it is anticipated that the actuation frequency of the blade 1308 may be adjusted higher or lower to suit a cutting application (e.g., index speed, tissue type, operator preference, and the like).

In accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure, the blade 1308, or other cutting surface, may be deployed from within a shaft of the tissue slitting device 1308. Additionally or alternatively, any tissue slitting member (e.g., cutting tip, grinding tips, laser ablation, RF cutting, pressurized fluid cutters) may be shielded. Accordingly, any sharp or working members may be concealed from exposure to the patient 102 and/or vasculature, during navigation to a tissue growth 108 site. This concealment and/or shielding may act to prevent damage to a patient 102. As can be appreciated, any of the tissue slitting devices disclosed herein may utilize a deployable and/or shielded slitting member.

FIGS. 14A and 14B show a disk-style tissue slitting device 1404 inside an area of vasculature in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the tissue slitting device 1404 comprises an inner lumen 1416, at least one disk-style cutting blade 1408, a disk-style cutting blade actuation element 1410, a tapered section 1420, and a tapered section transition 1424. The inner lumen 1416 may be configured to allow a lead 104 and/or other objects to pass therethrough (e.g., a lead-locking device, traction device, snare tool, etc). As can be appreciated, the tissue slitting device 1404 may be indexed and/or guided along the lead 104 via the inner lumen 1416 of the device 1404. As shown, the disk-style cutting blade 1408 can move in one or more rotational direction 1418. In some embodiments, the disk-style cutting blade 1408 may rotate continually in one direction, while actuated. For example, the actuation element 1410 may be operatively connected to the disk-style cutting blade 1408 at a point that is off of the axis of revolution of the blade 1408. By moving the actuation element 1410 axially in this example the off-axis motion could engender rotation about a fixed axis of revolution. Alternatively, the actuation element 1410 may be an electrical connection to a power source at the proximal end of the tissue slitting device 1404. In this example, the disk-style cutting blade 1408 may include a motor at the distal end that is operatively attached to the blade 1408 and is powered by a power source connected to the electrical connection.

In other embodiments, the disk-style cutting blade 1408 may repeatedly alternate directions of rotation (e.g., from a clockwise to a counterclockwise direction, and so forth). When the cutting blade 1408 is engaged with a tissue growth 108, and actuated, the disk-style cutting blade may cause at least a partial slit in the engaged tissue growth 108.

Referring to FIG. 14A, the disk-style cutting blade 1408 may be oriented such that the cutting surface of the blade 1408 is maintained substantially parallel with the outer surface of the lead 104 during cutting and engagement with a tissue growth 108. In some embodiments, the angle of the disk-style cutting blade 1408 may be arranged such that an obtuse angle is formed between a plane that is coincident with the lead axis 104 and a non-cutting surface of the disk-style cutting blade 1408. Orienting the disk-style cutting blade 1408 at an angle to the tissue growth 108 may assist in the cutting of at least one slit in the tissue growth 108 formed around the lead 104.

FIG. 14B shows the disk-style cutting blade 1408 oriented such that the cutting surface of the blade 1408 is maintained substantially perpendicular to the outer surface of the lead 104 during cutting and engagement with a tissue growth 108. In some embodiments, the disk-style cutting blade 1408 may not be connected to a power source via the actuation element 1410. In this case, the cutting blade 1408 may be free to rotate about a fixed axis of revolution and as such may be presented to the tissue growth 108 and engaged further into the growth 108 to create a slit in the tissue 108.

FIGS. 15A and 15B show a deployable cutting element tissue slitting device 1504 inside an area of vasculature in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the tissue slitting device 1504 comprises an inner lumen 1516, at least one deployable cutting element 1508, a leading edge 1526, a tapered section 1520, a tapered section transition 1524, a tissue tension taper 1522, a cutout 1530, a deployment element 1534 connected to an actuation element 1538, and a cutting element retaining member 1542. The inner lumen 1516 may be configured to allow a lead 104 and/or other objects to pass therethrough (e.g., a lead-locking device, traction device, snare tool, etc). As can be appreciated, the tissue slitting device 1504 may be indexed and/or guided along the lead 104 via the inner lumen 1516 of the device 1504.

In some embodiments, the tissue slitting device 1504 may include a section having a concealed blade or deployable cutting surface. The leading edge 1526 may incorporate a tapered non-traumatic leading edge disposed at the distal most end of the tissue slitting device 1504, as previously disclosed. Additionally or alternatively, one or more features of the tissue slitting device 1504 may be configured to wedge in between the tissue growth 108 and the lead 104. In some embodiments, the tissue slitting device 1504 may include a slot, cutout, keyway, opening, or other volume 1530, housing a cutting surface 1508. In one embodiment the cutting surface 1508 may be operatively attached to a deployment element 1534 that is configured to deploy and/or conceal the cutting surface 1508 upon receiving an input directing an actuation. As can be appreciated, the deployment element 1534 may comprise, but is not limited to, one or more of, a balloon, a ramp, a screw, a wedge, an expansible member, a cam-operated lever, a lever, a cam, and combinations thereof. For example, the tissue slitting device 1504 may be oriented into a position, such that the leading edge 1526 of the tissue slitting device 1504 engages with a tissue growth 108. Once engaged, an operator may deploy the cutting surface 1508 of the tissue slitting device 1504 from a concealed position (see, e.g., FIG. 15A) by actuating the deployment element 1534 via the actuation element 1538. When the cutting surface 1508 is deployed (see, e.g., FIG. 15B), the tissue slitting device 1504 may be indexed further along the lead 104 and into the formed tissue 108. While the cutting surface 1508 is deployed and indexed along the lead 104, the formed tissue 108 is slit along a length adjacent to the cutting surface 1508. This arrangement offers the additional benefit of navigating the cutting surface 1508 (and any sharp and/or hardened blade) inside a patient in a safe collapsed, retracted, concealed, and/or undeployed, state.

In one example, the cutting element 1508 may be deployed by actuating a balloon operatively connected to the cutting element 1508. In other words, in this example, the deployment element 1534 may comprise a balloon, while the actuation element 1538 may comprise a lumen configured to convey a fluid (e.g., gas or liquid) suitable to inflate the balloon and extend the cutting element 1508. In some embodiments, the cutting element may be retained in the cutout 1530 via a retaining member 1542. For instance, the retaining member may include a spring connected to the tissue slitting device 1504 (e.g., at the cutout 1530) and the cutting member 1508. Additionally or alternatively, the retaining member 1542 may assist in returning the cutting element 1508 to a retracted, or concealed, state. In the case of a spring, the retaining member 1542 may exert a force on the cutting element 1508 to resist deployment without sufficient actuation via the deployment element 1534.

In another example, the cutting element 1508 may be deployed via a cam element operatively connected to the cutting element 1508. The cam element may be actuated via a rotation or other movement of the actuation element 1538 that is connected to the cam element. In this case, the retaining member 1542 may include a cam groove, guide, raceway, combinations thereof, or other combination of elements to direct and retain the cutting member 1508.

Grinding Embodiments

Referring to FIG. 16, an embodiment of a tissue slitting device 1604 inside an area of vasculature having formed tissue 108 surrounding an implanted lead 104 in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the tissue slitting device 1604 comprises an inner lumen 1616, at least one reciprocating grinder 1608, a reciprocating grinder actuation element 1610, a tapered section 1620, and a tapered section transition 1624. The inner lumen 1616 may be configured to allow a lead 104 and/or other objects to pass therethrough (e.g., a lead-locking device, fraction device, snare tool, etc). As can be appreciated, the tissue slitting device 1604 may be indexed and/or guided along the lead 104 via the inner lumen 1616 of the device 1604. In one embodiment, the reciprocating grinder 1608 may be configured to move back-and-forth in an axial direction 1618. This actuation may be independent of the movement of the outer shaft of the device 1604. The reciprocating motion of the grinder 1608 may be achieved via a reciprocating actuator that is operatively connected proximal to the distal tip. The reciprocating actuator may be an electrical motor that is located at the proximal end of the flexible shaft. In some embodiments, the reciprocating actuator may be manually operated via a mechanical movement at the proximal end of the flexible shaft connected to the tissue slitting device 1604. In any event, energy from the actuator may be transferred to the grinder 1608 via an actuation element 1610. It is anticipated that the actuation element 1610 may comprise one or more of a shaft, rod, bar, link, and the like, that is configured to transmit force from the proximal end of the tissue slitting device 1604 to the grinder 1608.

In one embodiment, the reciprocating blade 1608 may be configured to move a grinding surface horizontal to the central axis of the tissue slitting device 1604. In other words, rather than reciprocating along an axis of the tissue slitting device 1604, as previously disclosed, the reciprocating grinder in this embodiment may operate across (or side-to-side) the distal tip of the tissue slitting device 1604. Additionally or alternatively, the actuation of the grinder 1608, whether axial or side-to-side, may be provided at a frequency below 20 kHz. In some embodiments, the actuation frequency of the grinder 1608 may exceed 20 kHz (e.g., ultrasonic range). In either case, it is anticipated that the actuation frequency of the grinder 1608 may be adjusted higher or lower to suit a cutting application (e.g., index speed, tissue type, operator preference, and the like).

In some embodiments, the tissue slitting device 1604 may include a grinder disposed at the distal tip of the device 1604. The grinder 1608 may be configured to slit the formed tissue 108 by subjecting the tissue 108 to a moving abrasive surface. In one embodiment, the grinder 1608 may include a grinding tip located at the distal tip of the device 1604. The grinder 1608 may include an abrasive surface disposed on at least one surface that is caused to contact formed tissue 108 on a given side of the lead 104. The grinder 1608 may be engaged with the tissue growth 108 where the grinder 1608 emaciates the formed tissue 108 until the tissue 108 is slit at the point of contact with the grinder 1608. In any of the embodiments disclosed herein, the grinding or abrasive surface may include at least one rough surface, knurl, machined/formed metal, abrasive surface, diamond deposition, and combinations thereof and the like.

Referring to FIG. 17, an embodiment of a tissue slitting device 1704 inside an area of vasculature having formed tissue 108 surrounding an implanted lead 104 in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the tissue slitting device 1704 comprises an inner lumen 1716, at least one grinding mechanism 1708 comprising an abrasive element 1728 and at least one roller 1730, an actuation element 1710, a tapered section 1720, and a tapered section transition 1724. The inner lumen 1716 may be configured to allow a lead 104 and/or other objects to pass therethrough (e.g., a lead-locking device, traction device, snare tool, etc). As can be appreciated, the tissue slitting device 1704 may be indexed and/or guided along the lead 104 via the inner lumen 1716 of the device 1704.

As shown, the grinding mechanism 1708 can move in one or more rotational direction 1718. In some embodiments, the grinding mechanism 1708 may rotate continually in one direction, while actuated. For example, the actuation element 1710 may be operatively connected to the at least one roller 1730 to turn the abrasive element 1728. By turning the at least one roller 1730 and the abrasive element 1728 the grinding mechanism 1708 may emaciate tissue it engages at the distal tip of the tissue slitting device 1704. Alternatively, the actuation element 1710 may be an electrical connection to a power source at the proximal end of the tissue slitting device 1704. In this example, the grinding mechanism 1708 may include a motor at the distal end that is operatively attached to the at least one roller 1730 and is powered by a power source connected to the electrical connection.

In other embodiments, the at least one roller 1730 may repeatedly alternate directions of rotation (e.g., from a clockwise to a counterclockwise direction, and so forth). When the abrasive element 1728 is engaged with a tissue growth 108, and actuated, the abrasive element 1728 may cause at least a partial slit in the engaged tissue growth 108.

FIG. 18 shows an embodiment of a tissue slitting device 1804 inside an area of vasculature having formed tissue 108 surrounding an implanted lead 104 in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the tissue slitting device 1804 comprises an inner lumen 1816, at least one grinding wheel 1808 comprising at least one abrasive surface 1828, an actuation element 1810, a tapered section 1820, and a tapered section transition 1824. The inner lumen 1816 may be configured to allow a lead 104 and/or other objects to pass therethrough (e.g., a lead-locking device, traction device, snare tool, etc). As can be appreciated, the tissue slitting device 1804 may be indexed and/or guided along the lead 104 via the inner lumen 1816 of the device 1804.

As shown, the grinding wheel 1808 can move in one or more rotational direction 1818. In some embodiments, the grinding wheel 1808 may rotate continually in one direction, while actuated. For example, the actuation element 1810 may be operatively connected to the at least wheel 1808 to rotate the wheel 1808 about a fixed axis. As the grinding wheel 1808 is rotated it can emaciate tissue it engages at the distal tip of the tissue slitting device 1804. Alternatively, the actuation element 1810 may be an electrical connection to a power source at the proximal end of the tissue slitting device 1804. In this example, the grinding wheel 1808 may include a motor at the distal end that is operatively attached to the grinding wheel 1808 and is powered by a power source connected to the electrical connection.

In other embodiments, the grinding wheel 1808 may repeatedly alternate directions of rotation (e.g., from a clockwise to a counterclockwise direction, and so forth). When the abrasive surface 1828 is actuated and then engaged with a tissue growth 108, the grinding wheel 1808 may cause at least a partial slit in the engaged tissue growth 108 by emaciating contacted tissue growth 108.

Referring to FIGS. 19A and 19B, an embodiment of an abrasive tissue slitting device is shown in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the tissue slitting device 1904 comprises an inner lumen 1916, at least one grinding surface 1908 having an exposed edge 1926 inside a lumen cutout 1930 of the distal tip 1912, a shielded lumen portion 1920, a tapered transition 1924, and a transmission shaft 1934. The inner lumen 1916 may be configured to allow a lead 104 and/or other objects to pass therethrough (e.g., a lead-locking device, traction device, snare tool, etc). As can be appreciated, the tissue slitting device 1904 may be indexed and/or guided along the lead 104 via the inner lumen 1916 of the device 1904.

In some embodiments, the tissue slitting device 1904 provides a rotating grinding surface 1908 to emaciate tissue growth 108 along one side of the lead 104. In other words, the tissue slitting device 1904 includes a cutout 1930 to expose a grinding edge 1926 to the tissue growth 108. It is anticipated that the grinding surface 1908 may be rotated and/or operate similarly to the previously disclosed grinding embodiments. In other words, the grinding surface 1908 may be rotated in one direction continuously and/or periodically, and/or in alternate directions (e.g., clockwise and counterclockwise) continuously and/or periodically.

In one embodiment, the grinding surface may be partially covered by a shielded lumen portion 1920. The shielded lumen portion 1920 may prevent contact of the grinding surface with areas of the vasculature, or lead 104, other than a section of the formed tissue 108 surrounding the lead 104. As can be expected, the partial covering may present an exposed section of the grinding surface 1908 to contact the formed tissue that is engaged with the distal tip of the tissue slitting device 1904. In some embodiments, the grinding surface 1908 may be angled, or disposed at an angle, in relation to the distal tip 1912 of the tissue slitting device 1904.

Laser Ablation Embodiments

FIGS. 20-25 show embodiments of a tissue slitting device utilizing laser ablation and one or more light guides that are configured to transmit light to ablate the tissue 108 surrounding at least a portion of the lead 104. It should be noted that the laser ablation embodiments may be used alone or in combination with any of the other embodiments set forth in this disclosure. That is, the laser ablation embodiments may be used in conjunction with the cutting, grinding, planing, high-pressure solution, and other embodiments discussed herein.

FIG. 20 shows an embodiment of a tissue slitting device 2004 inside an area of vasculature having formed tissue 108 surrounding an implanted lead 104 in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the tissue slitting device 2004 comprises an inner lumen 2016, a light-emitting distal end 2008, at least one light guide 2010, a tapered section 2020, and a tapered section transition 2024. The inner lumen 2016 may be configured to allow a lead 104 and/or other objects to pass therethrough (e.g., a lead-locking device, fraction device, snare tool, etc). As can be appreciated, the tissue slitting device 2004 may be indexed and/or guided along the lead 104 via the inner lumen 2016 of the device 2004.

The light-emitting distal end 2008 of the tissue slitting device 2004 may comprise one or more terminated light guides 2010. In one embodiment, the one or more terminated light guides 2010 may be optical fibers that can are arranged such that light is directed along a path 2018 toward a tissue growth 108 surrounding an area of a lead 104. It is anticipated that the optical fibers can conduct laser light generated by a laser system located at the proximal end of the tissue slitting device 2004. In some cases, the laser light may be generated in the 308 nM range. Exemplary laser light may include pulsed laser light created by an XeCl Excimer laser system.

In accordance with one aspect of the present disclosure, the wavelength of the laser light conducted by the optical fibers, and/or light guides 2010, as disclosed herein may be adjusted to match a desired ablation energy for various deposits and/or growths inside a patient. As can be appreciated, different deposits and/or growths may require different laser wavelengths for efficient ablation. These deposits may include tissue, fat, collagen, elastin, lipid accumulation, fibrotic layers, plaque, calcified layers, and the like. In one example, the wavelength of the laser system may be selectively tuned using one or more optical components to provide a second laser wavelength. In other words, the one or more optical components may alter a characteristic associated with the light energy emitted by a laser source. Examples of such optical components may include, but are not limited to, one or more filters, lenses, prisms, coatings, films, and deposited layers of optically transmissive material. In another example, a second laser system may be optically coupled with the optical fibers and/or light guides to provide the second laser wavelength. This second laser system and the corresponding second wavelength may be activated in conjunction with the laser system. Alternatively, the second laser system and second laser wavelength may be activated separately from the laser system.

It is an aspect of the present disclosure that the wavelength of the laser light conducted by the optical fibers and/or light guides may be adjusted during an ablation operation. As can be appreciated, an operator may select an appropriate wavelength of laser light as required to ablate various deposits. This selection may be performed without requiring removal of the optical fibers and/or light guides from the patient. In other words, a switch from one laser wavelength to another laser wavelength can be performed outside of the patient at the laser system and/or the second laser system.

In one embodiment, the tissue slitting device 2004 may include features that contact the lead 104 and allow the light-emitting distal end 2008 to accept deviations in lead geometry and location. For instance, the features may include a spring, band, or other elastic member that is operatively connected to an area of the light-emitting distal end 2008. In this example, when the distal end 2008 contacts a change in lead 104 geometry, the tissue growth 108, or other foreign object, the elastic member can accommodate the change and adjust a position and/or orientation of the light-emitting distal end 2008.

In accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure, the tissue slitting device 2004 may configured to cause an ablation of tissue in a given width and/or depth along an axial length of the lead 104. In some instances, the light-emitting distal end 2008 may be configured to cauterize, ablate, or otherwise separate tissue growth 108 along a thin section. For instance, the tissue slitting device 2004 may create an initial separation of tissue as wide as the array of one or more optical fibers. As can be appreciated, the width of the initial tissue separation can be correlated to the arrangement and width of the one or more light guide 2010 of the tissue slitting device 2004.

In another embodiment, the one or more light guide 2010 may direct light at least partially inward toward the central axis of the lead 104. The one or more light guide 2010 may be disposed to conduct at least portion of the light angularly toward the distal end of the tissue slitting device 2004 and/or toward the central axis of the lead 104. As the tissue slitting device 2004 engages the tissue growth 108, the laser light may be activated and the tissue 108 may be severed along the line of conducted light.

FIG. 21 shows an embodiment of a tissue slitting device 2104 in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the tissue slitting device 2104 comprises an inner lumen 2116, a laser member 2112 comprising a light-emitting distal end 2108 at least one light guide 2128 and a lead engagement feature 2132, and a tapered section transition 2124. The inner lumen 2116 may be configured to allow a lead 104 and/or other objects to pass therethrough (e.g., a lead-locking device, traction device, snare tool, etc). As can be appreciated, the tissue slitting device 2104 may be indexed and/or guided along the lead 104 via the inner lumen 2116 of the device 2104.

The laser member 2112 may include one or more features 2132 to engage with an implanted lead 104. One example of such a lead engagement feature 2132 may include an arcuate surface that is disposed on the lead 104 side of the laser member 2112. As can be appreciated, the arcuate surface of the lead engagement feature 2132 may substantially contact the lead 104 at more than one point. This multiple-point contact may provide stability to the tissue slitting device 2104 as it is indexed along the lead 104.

In some cases, a plurality of light guides 2128 may be arranged vertically. As such, the light guides 2128 may direct laser light along a plane that runs along, or parallel to, the lead 104 axis. In other words, the tissue slitting device 2104, when actuated and presented adjacent to a tissue growth 108, may cause a separation of tissue in a tissue growth 108 along an axial length of the growth 108.

FIG. 22 shows an embodiment of a tissue slitting device 2204 in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the tissue slitting device 2204 comprises an inner lumen 2216, a laser member 2212 comprising a light-emitting distal end 2208 at least one light guide 2228 and a lead engagement feature 2232, and a tapered section transition 2224. The inner lumen 2216 may be configured to allow a lead 104 and/or other objects to pass therethrough (e.g., a lead-locking device, traction device, snare tool, etc). As can be appreciated, the tissue slitting device 2204 may be indexed and/or guided along the lead 104 via the inner lumen 2216 of the device 2204.

The laser member 2212 may include one or more features 2232 to engage with an implanted lead 104. One example of such a lead engagement feature 2232 may include an arcuate surface that is disposed on the lead 104 side of the laser member 2212. As can be appreciated, the arcuate surface of the lead engagement feature 2232 may substantially contact the lead 104 at more than one point. This multiple-point contact may provide stability to the tissue slitting device 2204 as it is indexed along the lead 104.

In some cases, a plurality of light guides 2228 may be arranged horizontally. As such, the light guides 2228 may direct laser light along a plane that runs along, or parallel to, the outer circumference of the lead 104. In other words, the tissue slitting device 2204, when actuated and presented adjacent to a tissue growth 108, may cause a separation of tissue in a tissue growth 108 along an axial length and width of the growth 108. This separation of tissue is similar to the removal of tissue provided by the embodiment disclosed in FIG. 11.

FIG. 23 shows a distal end view of a laser tissue slitting device 2304 in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the tissue slitting device 2304 comprises a shaft 2324, an inner lumen 2316, and a plurality of optical fibers 2328. illustrates a tube having a distal end with optical fibers included therein. The inner lumen 2316 may be configured to allow a lead 104 and/or other objects to pass therethrough (e.g., a lead-locking device, fraction device, snare tool, etc). As can be appreciated, the tissue slitting device 2304 may be indexed and/or guided along the lead 104 via the inner lumen 2316 of the device 2304. The optical fibers 2328 may be used to ablate a section of tissue growth 108 surrounding a lead 104. Additionally or alternatively, the optical fibers 2328 may be disposed in a portion of the shaft 2324 or about the entire periphery of the shaft 2324.

FIGS. 24-25 show embodiments where one or more laser ablation features are combined with other tissue slitting embodiments as disclosed or suggested herein.

Referring to FIG. 24, a distal end view of a tissue slitting device 2404 is shown in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the tissue slitting device 2404 comprises a shaft 2424, an inner lumen 2416, at least one wedge feature 2420, and a plurality of optical fibers 2428. Additionally or alternatively, the tissue slitting device 2404 may include a cutting edge 2408. The inner lumen 2416 may be configured to allow a lead 104 and/or other objects to pass therethrough (e.g., a lead-locking device, traction device, snare tool, etc). As can be appreciated, the tissue slitting device 2404 may be indexed and/or guided along the lead 104 via the inner lumen 2416 of the device 2404. The optical fibers 2428 may be used to ablate a section of tissue growth 108 surrounding a lead 104. The optical fibers 2428 may be disposed in a portion of the shaft 2424 or about the entire periphery of the shaft 2424. In some embodiments, when the optical fibers 2428 are included in only a portion of the shaft 2424, it may be preferable to bias the optical fibers 2428 adjacent to the cutting edge 2408 or cutting tip of the shaft 2424 as shown. Alternatively, it may be preferable to include the optical fibers 2428 at a distance away from the cutting edge 2408 or cutting tip of the shaft 2424. In some embodiments, it may be preferable to include as many optical fibers 2428 as possible within the circumference of the shaft 2424.

FIG. 25 shows a distal end view of a tissue slitting device 2504 in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the tissue slitting device 2504 comprises a shaft 2524, an inner lumen 2516, at least one cutting wedge feature 2520, and a plurality of optical fibers 2528. Additionally or alternatively, the tissue slitting device 2504 may include a distal cutting edge 2508. The inner lumen 2516 may be configured to allow a lead 104 and/or other objects to pass therethrough (e.g., a lead-locking device, traction device, snare tool, etc). As can be appreciated, the tissue slitting device 2504 may be indexed and/or guided along the lead 104 via the inner lumen 2516 of the device 2504. The optical fibers 2528 may be used to ablate a section of tissue growth 108 surrounding a lead 104. The optical fibers 2528 may be disposed in a portion of the shaft 2524 or about the entire periphery of the shaft 2524. In some embodiments, when the optical fibers 2528 are included in only a portion of the shaft 2524, it may be preferable to bias the optical fibers 2528 adjacent to the distal cutting edge 2508 or cutting tip of the shaft 2524 as shown. Alternatively, it may be preferable to include the optical fibers 2528 at a distance away from the cutting edge 2508 or cutting tip of the shaft 2524. In some embodiments, it may be preferable to include as many optical fibers 2528 as possible within the circumference of the shaft 2524.

Additionally or alternatively, the tissue slitting edge may utilize other wavelengths of emitted radiation energy, such as thermal or infrared energy, electromagnetic radiation, and/or other radiation wavelengths to slit or cut the formed tissue. The tissue slitting edge can, for example, be an energy device, such as a power sheath (of a catheter), which typically applies a form of energy at the sheath tip to cut the scar tissue away from the lead thus allowing for removal. As the sheath is pushed over the lead and comes to an area of attachment, the operator can turn on the sheath's energy source to heat or vaporize scar tissue, forming the desired slit, One such sheath uses electrocautery, similar to what is used to cut through tissue in surgery. Another sheath has one or more tiny energy emitters at its tip or edge. When activated, the emitted energy vaporizes water molecules in scar tissue within about 1 mm, thereby forming the desired slit or cut. Additionally or alternatively, dilating telescopic sheaths or cutting balloons of a catheter having a longitudinally positioned tissue slitting edge can be fully or partially expanded or inflated, thereby deploying the tissue slitting edge to form the desired slit.

In some embodiments, the distal tip of the tissue slitting device 2504 may include a wedge cutting feature 2520. The wedge cutting feature 2520 may comprise a blade and a wedge configured to peel the tissue away from the cutting edge 2508 of the tissue slitting device 2504 as it is being cut by the cutting edge 2508 and the blade. Utilizing a combination of laser ablation embodiments with other tissue slitting embodiments allows for creative solutions to various tissue growths 108. For example, the laser light in a laser tissue slitting device 2504 may be actuated in pulses to ablate sections of difficult tissue growth 108 while the wedge cutting feature 2520 acts to cut and separate ablated and other areas of the tissue growth 108. As can be appreciated, various laser embodiments and/or actuation techniques and other tissue slitting features may be combined to best suit individual tissue growth 108 in a patient 102.

It should be noted that the laser ablation embodiments, as well as the other embodiments disclosed herein, may be used alone or in combination with the non-traumatic leading edge, wedges, tapers, and/or other tissue slitting embodiments disclosed without limitation. Additionally or alternatively, the tissue slitting devices disclosed herein may include at least one fluorescing material or marker (e.g., radiopaque band, marker, and the like). In some embodiments, the radiopaque marker may be arranged about and/or adjacent to a tissue cutting area (e.g., laser optical fibers, blades, planers, electromagnetic radiation emitter, RF devices, high-pressure fluid, grinders, sanders, drills, ultrasonic devices, and the like) of the tissue slitting device. The radiopaque marker, may assist in identifying a location of the tissue cutting area via a monitoring device. Examples of radiopaque markers may include, but are in no way limited to, materials and/or particles containing tantalum, tungsten, carbide, iridium, bismuth oxide, barium sulfate, cobalt, platinum and/or alloys and combinations thereof.

High-Pressure Solution Embodiments

FIG. 26 shows a tissue slitting device 2604 inside an area of vasculature having tissue growth 108 surrounding an implanted lead 104 in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the tissue slitting device 2604 comprises a shaft 2606, an inner lumen 2616, at least one fluid channel 2610, at least one nozzle 2608, a tissue-side taper 2620, and an opening-side taper 2608. Additionally or alternatively, the tissue slitting device 2604 may include a port opening 2630. The inner lumen 2616 may be configured to allow a lead 104 and/or other objects to pass therethrough (e.g., a lead-locking device, traction device, snare tool, etc). As can be appreciated, the tissue slitting device 2604 may be indexed and/or guided along the lead 104 via the inner lumen 2616 of the device 2604. Embodiments of the present disclosure anticipate using a solution (e.g., NaCl, MgCl, saline, etc.) directed under pressure to remove formed tissue 108 attached to an implanted lead 104. A fluid channel 2610 having a proximal end, a distal end, and an inner lumen running from the proximal end of the fluid channel 2610 to an area of the distal end of the tissue slitting device 2604, may be disposed substantially parallel to the shaft 2606 to contain the pressurized solution (e.g., NaCl, saline, etc.).

In some embodiments, the channel 2610 may taper in the form of a nozzle 2608 at the distal end to focus fluid expelled from the channel 2610. As can be appreciated, the focus of the fluid out of the nozzle 2608 increases the pressure of the fluid that contacts a tissue growth 108. Alternatively, a fluid channel 2610 may include a port opening 2630 that does not include any taper. As such, the fluid is not focused as it is expelled from the fluid port opening 2630. In some embodiments, the channel 2610 may include a plurality of orifices configured to expel saline solution. This plurality of orifices may include one or more nozzle 2608 features to control the rate of flow of the saline solution. Additionally or alternatively, the at least one orifice may be directed toward the lead 104, formed tissue 108, or other object and/or obstruction. In one embodiment, a first orifice may be oriented at a first angle to the lead 104 and/or formed tissue 108, and a second orifice may be oriented at a second angle to the lead 104 and/or formed tissue 108. In another embodiment, the angle and/or shape of the nozzle 2608, opening 2630, or orifices may be affected by the angle of the tissue-side taper 2620 and/or the opening-side taper 2608. Among other things, the orifices may be used to clear obstructions, clean the lead 104 as the tissue slitting device 2604 is moved along the lead 104, and/or provide lubrication for the inner lumen 2616 of tissue slitting device 2604 as it is moved along a lead 104.

Additionally or alternatively, solution may be forced between the tissue growth 108 and the lead 104 via at least one channel 2610 associated with the tissue slitting device 2604. The forced solution may act to expand and/or dilate the tissue growth 108 formed around a lead 104 or object. In some embodiments, the dilation of the formed tissue 108 created by the solution may create an opening for insertion of the distal end of the tissue slitting device 2604.

As can be appreciated, use of the forced solution may be combined with any other device and/or method disclosed herein. In one embodiment, the forced solution may cause the formed tissue 108 to expand around the lead 104 such that the formed tissue 108 no longer applies any forces to the lead 104. In such cases, the lead 104 may be removed from the formed tissue 108 while it is dilated.

Referring to FIG. 27, a tissue slitting method 2700 will be described in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present disclosure. The method 2700 starts at 2704 and begins by connecting a lead-locking device or other traction device to the lead 104 (step 2708). In some embodiments, the lead-locking device may be inserted into the core of an implanted lead 104. In other embodiments, a traction device may be connected to the lead 104 to provide traction on the lead 104. For instance, mechanical traction can be achieved in leads 104 by inserting a locking stylet into the lead 104 and applying a pull force onto the lead 104 via the locking stylet.

Once a traction device is attached to the lead 104, the traction device can be threaded through the internal, or inner, lumen of the tissue slitting device (step 2712). For example, the lead-locking device may be inserted through the lumen in an implanted lead 104 and attached to the internal portions of the implanted lead 104, which can be at the distal portion or proximal to the distal portion of the lead 104. The tissue slitting device may be part of a catheter that rides over the external portion of the lead 104 and lead-locking device and is configured to remove tissue along an axial length of the tissue 108 in contact with the lead 104.

As the tissue slitting device is engaged with the lead 104, a slight traction force may be applied to the lead 104 to allow the tissue slitting device to guide along the lead 104 (step 2716). The tissue slitting device can be moved toward the first formed tissue growth while applying a mechanical traction force to the lead 104 itself or through a locking stylet, or other traction device. Mechanical traction force should be applied with appropriate force to prevent tearing the vein or artery wall by moving the lead 104 and tissue before they are separated. In some embodiments, the tissue slitting device may be observed moving inside a patient 102 via a fluoroscope or other monitor. It is anticipated that the distal tip, or some other area, of the tissue slitting device may include a fluorescing material or marker (e.g., radiopaque band, and the like). This fluorescing material or marker may be used to aid in monitoring the movement of the tissue slitting device when it is inside a patient.

Next, the tissue slitter is moved into contact with the formed tissue growth (step 2720). In some embodiments, the slitting portion of the tissue slitting device may be oriented toward the center of the vein, or away from the vein wall connecting the lead 104 to the vein. In addition to preventing accidental puncture, trauma, or other damage to the delicate surfaces of the vasculature this orientation of the tissue slitting device may aid in the slitting and peeling away of the tissue 108 from the implanted lead 104. For example, a tissue slitting device may include a distal tip with a wedge and/or tapered portion proximal to the sharp portion of the tissue slitting device. It is anticipated that the distal tip of the tissue slitting device may include a non-traumatic leading edge. In some cases, the non-traumatic leading edge and the tapered portion may comprise the distal tip of the tissue slitting device. While applying mechanical traction force, the leading portion (of the tissue slitting device) may include a sharp, cutting, ablating, or grinding portion, which may be configured to cut into the tissue growth 108. As the tissue slitting device traverses along the lead 104, the cutting portion of the tissue slitting device continues to separate the formed tissue 108. Additionally the leading portion, which may include a wedge and/or tapered portion, can act to cause a stretching of the formed tissue growth 108 at the point where it engages with the tissue slitting device. This stretching of tissue may assist in the slitting operation by causing tension on the fibers of the tissue growth 108 that, when slit, pull back (or away) from the tissue slitting device engagement area.

Once the tissue slitting device is engaged with, and/or slitting, the formed tissue, the tissue slitting device may be actuated and moved along the lead to further engage with the tissue growth 108 (step 2724). In some embodiments, the tissue slitting device may be indexed forward (into the tissue formation 108) continuously or periodically. In other embodiments, the tissue slitting device may be repeatedly indexed into and removed from the engagement area of the formed tissue growth 108. It is anticipated that each time the tissue slitting device is indexed into the engagement area the device can make a successively longer slit in the formed tissue 108.

The method 2700 may be continued by determining whether other tissue growths exist, and if so, indexing the tissue slitting device through each formed tissue growth 108 that is surrounding a section of the implanted lead 104 in the vasculature (step 2728).

Once all of the formed tissue growths 108 are slit, the tissue slitting device may be removed from the patient 102 (step 2732). Additionally or alternatively, once the slits have been made the lead 104 may be removed by applying a pull force to the lead-locking device in the same direction as the mechanical traction force previously applied to the lead 104. It is anticipated that any movement of the tissue slitting device may be accompanied by an applied mechanical traction force to the lead/lead-locking device. The method 2700 ends at step 2736.

Other Embodiments

Referring to FIG. 28, an embodiment of an abrasive tissue slitting device is shown in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the tissue slitting device 2804 comprises an inner lumen 2816, at least one grinding surface 2808 having an exposed portion 2826 at least partially surrounded by a distal tip shield 2820, a tapered transition 2824, and a transmission shaft 2834. The inner lumen 2816 may be configured to allow a lead 104 and/or other objects to pass therethrough (e.g., a lead-locking device, traction device, snare tool, etc). As can be appreciated, the tissue slitting device 2804 may be indexed and/or guided along the lead 104 via the inner lumen 2816 of the device 2804.

In some embodiments, the tissue slitting device 2804 provides one or more rotating grinding surface 2808 to emaciate tissue growth 108 along at least one side of the lead 104. In other words, the tissue slitting device 2804 includes at least one opening 2830 to expose a grinding edge 2826 to the tissue growth 108. It is anticipated that the grinding surface 2808 may be rotated and/or operate similarly to the previously disclosed grinding embodiments. In other words, the grinding surface 2808 may be rotated in one direction continuously and/or periodically, and/or in alternate directions (e.g., clockwise and counterclockwise) continuously and/or periodically. As can be appreciated, the tissue slitting device 2804 may include one or more grinding surfaces 2808 that can be linked and/or geared together. For example, in instances where the tissue slitting device 2804 includes two or more grinding surfaces 2808, the two or more grinding surfaces may be geared to operate simultaneously. Additionally, the grinding surfaces may be directly geared and/or indirectly geared to rotate/move in alternate and/or similar rotational directions, respectively.

In one embodiment, the grinding surface 2808 may be partially covered by a shielded portion 2820. The shielded portion 2820 may prevent contact of the grinding surface with areas of the vasculature, or lead 104, other than a section of the formed tissue 108 surrounding the lead 104. As can be expected, the partial covering may present an exposed section of the grinding surface 2808 to contact the formed tissue that is engaged with the distal tip of the tissue slitting device 2804. In some embodiments, the grinding surface 2808 may be angled, or disposed at an angle, in relation to the distal tip of the tissue slitting device 2804.

In the appended figures, similar components and/or features may have the same reference label. Further, various components of the same type may be distinguished by following the reference label by a letter that distinguishes among the similar components. If only the first reference label is used in the specification, the description is applicable to any one of the similar components having the same first reference label irrespective of the second reference label.

Presented herein are embodiments of a tissue separating device, system, and method. As described herein, the device(s) may be electrical, mechanical, electro-mechanical, and/or combinations thereof.

Also, while the flowcharts have been discussed and illustrated in relation to a particular sequence of events, it should be appreciated that changes, additions, and omissions to this sequence can occur without materially affecting the operation of the disclosed embodiments, configuration, and aspects.

A number of variations and modifications of the disclosure can be used. It would be possible to provide for some features of the disclosure without providing others. By way of illustration, any methodology or modality of cutting tissue may be employed as described herein to effect lead removal from an encased tissue growth.

The present disclosure, in various aspects, embodiments, and/or configurations, includes components, methods, processes, systems and/or apparatus substantially as depicted and described herein, including various aspects, embodiments, configurations embodiments, subcombinations, and/or subsets thereof. Those of skill in the art will understand how to make and use the disclosed aspects, embodiments, and/or configurations after understanding the present disclosure. The present disclosure, in various aspects, embodiments, and/or configurations, includes providing devices and processes in the absence of items not depicted and/or described herein or in various aspects, embodiments, and/or configurations hereof, including in the absence of such items as may have been used in previous devices or processes, e.g., for improving performance, achieving ease and/or reducing cost of implementation.

The foregoing discussion has been presented for purposes of illustration and description. The foregoing is not intended to limit the disclosure to the form or forms disclosed herein. In the foregoing Summary for example, various features of the disclosure are grouped together in one or more aspects, embodiments, and/or configurations for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure. The features of the aspects, embodiments, and/or configurations of the disclosure may be combined in alternate aspects, embodiments, and/or configurations other than those discussed above. This method of disclosure is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claims require more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive aspects lie in less than all features of a single foregoing disclosed aspect, embodiment, and/or configuration. Thus, the following claims are hereby incorporated into this Summary, with each claim standing on its own as a separate preferred embodiment of the disclosure.

Moreover, though the description has included description of one or more aspects, embodiments, and/or configurations and certain variations and modifications, other variations, combinations, and modifications are within the scope of the disclosure, e.g., as may be within the skill and knowledge of those in the art, after understanding the present disclosure. It is intended to obtain rights which include alternative aspects, embodiments, and/or configurations to the extent permitted, including alternate, interchangeable and/or equivalent structures, functions, ranges or steps to those claimed, whether or not such alternate, interchangeable and/or equivalent structures, functions, ranges or steps are disclosed herein, and without intending to publicly dedicate any patentable subject matter. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A tissue slitting apparatus comprising: a laser light source configured to generate light energy; a shaft configured to be coupled to the laser light source, wherein the shaft is flexible, the shaft having: a proximal end; a distal end; a first inner lumen running from the proximal end to the distal end and configured to receive at least one implanted object; an axis running along the first inner lumen of the shaft; a second inner lumen disposed radially outward of the first inner lumen; and at least one optical fiber carried by the shaft and exposed distally to the distal end of the shaft, the at least one optical fiber being configured to receive the light energy from the laser light source, and wherein the at least one optical fiber, upon being exposed distally to the distal end of the shaft, comprises a predetermined structure comprising: a first section extending through the second inner lumen and parallel to the axis running along the first inner lumen of the shaft; an elbow section, wherein the elbow section comprises a first leg having a first end and a second leg having a second end, wherein the first end is coupled to and extending from the first section and disposed distally relative to the distal end of the shaft, wherein the first leg and the second leg form an acute angle such that the first end of the elbow and the second end of the elbow are oriented in a proximal direction, wherein the first end is directed toward the second inner lumen; and a second section coupled to the second end of the elbow and disposed proximally relative to the elbow, the second section partially disposed within the first inner lumen of the shaft, the second section extending at the acute angle relative to the first section and toward the axis running along the first inner lumen of the shaft, the second section configured to emit the light energy transversely toward the axis to slit tissue at least partially surrounding the implanted object while the implanted object is disposed in the first inner lumen.
 2. The tissue slitting apparatus of claim 1, wherein the laser light source is configured to output one or more wavelengths of laser light.
 3. The tissue slitting apparatus of claim 1, wherein the laser light source is an XeCl Excimer laser and the light energy has a wavelength of 308 nm.
 4. The tissue slitting apparatus of claim 1, further comprising: a second laser light source configured to generate light energy, wherein the light energy generated by the second laser light source has a wavelength other than 308 nm.
 5. The tissue slitting apparatus of claim 1, further comprising: at least one optical component disposed between the at least one optical fiber and the laser light source, wherein the at least one optical component is configured to alter a characteristic associated with the light energy.
 6. The tissue slitting apparatus of claim 5, wherein the at least one optical component is one or more of a filter, lens, prism, coating, film, and deposited layer of optically transmissive material.
 7. The tissue slitting apparatus of claim 1, wherein the tissue slitting apparatus is configured to subject a tissue growth to a slitting action only about a partial periphery of an internal diameter of the tissue growth surrounding the implanted object at any point along the implanted object.
 8. The tissue slitting apparatus of claim 1, wherein the at least one optical fiber is configured to move relative to the distal end from a first position to a second position as the tissue slitting apparatus contacts a tissue growth.
 9. The tissue slitting apparatus of claim 8, wherein the at least one optical fiber moves against a spring, and wherein the spring is configured to exert a force against the at least one optical fiber and maintain the first position of the at least one optical fiber when the tissue slitting apparatus moves past the tissue growth.
 10. A tissue slitting apparatus comprising: a laser light source configured to generate light energy; a shaft configured to be coupled to the laser light source, wherein the shaft is flexible, the shaft having: a proximal end; a distal end; a first inner lumen running from the proximal end to the distal end and configured to receive at least one implanted object; an axis running along the first inner lumen of the shaft; a second inner lumen disposed radially outward of the first inner lumen, wherein the first inner lumen and the second inner lumen terminate at the distal end of the shaft; and at least one optical fiber carried by the shaft and exposed distally to the distal end of the shaft, the at least one optical fiber being configured to receive the light energy from the laser light source, and wherein the at least one optical fiber, upon being exposed distally of the distal end of the shaft, comprises a predetermined structure comprising: a first section extending through the second inner lumen and parallel to the axis running along the first inner lumen of the shaft; an elbow comprising a first end and a second end, wherein the first end is coupled to the first section and disposed distally relative to the distal end of the shaft, wherein the elbow comprises an acute angle relative to the first section; and a second section coupled to the second end of the elbow and disposed proximally relative to the elbow, the second section partially disposed within the first inner lumen of the shaft, the second section extending at the acute angle relative to the first section and toward the axis running along the first inner lumen of the shaft, the second section configured to emit the light energy transversely toward the axis to slit tissue at least partially surrounding the implanted object while the implanted object is disposed in the first inner lumen. 